Curator’s statement
Aspen is more than a ski town—it’s an intersection of mountain adrenaline, cultural sophistication, and wellness retreat energy. Powder mornings roll into gallery strolls, après on sunlit terraces, and nights under starry skies. What keeps me coming back is how Aspen balances rugged wilderness with refined living—every trail, spa, and restaurant has its own character. Whether you’re here for the slopes, the festivals, or simply the crisp mountain air, Aspen has a rhythm that shifts with each season.
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Things to do in Aspen
Skiing & snowboarding the “Power of Four”: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Aspen Highlands each offer distinct terrain. Ski one or collect them all, depending on your style and skill.
Maroon Bells at sunrise: Colorado’s most photographed peaks glow pink in the morning light. Hike or snowshoe trails around the lakeshore depending on season.
Aspen Art Museum: A striking Shigeru Ban–designed building with rotating exhibitions and a rooftop café overlooking town. Perfect for a non-ski day.
Wellness day at Remède Spa (St. Regis): Mineral pools, oxygen lounge, and tailored mountain recovery treatments. Ideal after long days on the slopes or trails.
Aspen Music Festival & School (Summer): Classical concerts in a mountain setting. Bring a picnic to the Benedict Music Tent and enjoy world-class performances.
Ashcroft Ghost Town (Summer/Fall): Just outside Aspen, preserved remnants of a silver boom town. Great combined with a scenic drive or hike through Castle Creek Valley.
Snowcat dinner on the mountain: Ride a snowcat up the slopes for a tucked-away dinner in a mountain cabin. A cozy, only-in-Aspen experience.
Hiking Smuggler Mountain Trail: Popular local hike leading to panoramic views of town and surrounding peaks—quick, rewarding, and great for acclimating to altitude.
Shopping in Aspen’s core: From Prada to local boutiques, Aspen’s pedestrian core blends luxury and mountain charm. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Places to eat & drink in Aspen
Matsuhisa Aspen: Chef Nobu’s mountain outpost blends Japanese precision with global influences. Must-try for sushi lovers.
Element 47 (The Little Nell): Wine-focused fine dining with seasonal Colorado ingredients. Known for impeccable service and deep cellar.
Clark’s Oyster Bar: Laid-back yet elevated—seafood towers, East Coast oysters, and strong cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
Meat & Cheese: Local favorite offering artisanal boards, farm-to-table dishes, and a casual but stylish vibe. Attached market is perfect for provisions.
Pine Creek Cookhouse: Set in Castle Creek Valley, reachable by sleigh or cross-country ski in winter. Rustic elegance with sweeping mountain views.
Wild Fig: Cozy European bistro with Mediterranean flavors. A great option for a warm, intimate dinner.
Ajax Tavern (The Little Nell): Iconic après-ski spot at the base of Aspen Mountain. Famous for truffle fries and a buzzing patio scene.
Paradise Bakery & Café: Morning go-to for fresh pastries, coffee, and people-watching in the heart of town.
Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar: Speakeasy-style lounge serving creative cocktails in an intimate setting. Perfect for a nightcap.
Need to know
Altitude: Aspen sits at nearly 8,000 feet. Hydrate, take it slow on day one, and consider oxygen lounges if sensitive.
Best time to visit: Winter for skiing (December–March), summer for festivals and hiking (June–August), fall for golden aspens (September–October).
Transportation: Aspen has a small but convenient airport. Shuttles and walking cover most of town—rental cars are best for exploring valleys.
Events: Winters are packed with ski competitions; summers host the Aspen Ideas Festival and Food & Wine Classic—book far in advance.
Après-ski culture: Aspen is as much about the après as the slopes. Evenings can be as social or relaxed as you choose.
Travel Advisor
Lucas Wackford
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Aspen page.